TOKYO, Reuters – Japan’s military claimed on Thursday it had spotted four Russian amphibious warfare vessels sailing near its islands. They were possibly heading west towards Europe.

Japan’s defence ministry released photos showing the amphibious transports used for landing expeditionary troops ashore.

“We don’t know their destination, but the direction they are going suggests it is possible,” said a Japanese defense ministry spokesperson. When asked if they might be heading for Ukraine, he replied “it’s possible”.

The Russian ships can be accompanied by a number of military vehicles, tanks, and troops. A Japanese Self Defense Force maritime patrol spotted them on Tuesday. They were then observed as they crossed the Sea of Japan from the Pacific Ocean through the Tsuruga Strait, which separates Japan’s Honshu Island from Hokkaido on Wednesday.

The military spokesperson said that it was unusual for Russian ships not to travel through the Strait in close proximity to Japanese territory.

Ukrainian combatants are equipped with anti-tank weapons provided by other countries and the United States. They have caused severe damage to Russian armor and fuel trucks. Moscow describes this attack as “special operations” and may require additional equipment.

NATO allies who have supplied Ukraine with 20,000 antitank and other weaponry already, said on Wednesday that they would continue supporting the country in its resistance to the Russian invasion.